4. Deglaze the Pot:
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute to develop the flavors.
Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits (this is where a lot of the flavor is!). Let the wine simmer and reduce for about 5 minutes.
5. Add Broth and Herbs:
Return the short ribs to the pot, along with any juices that have collected on the plate.
Pour in the beef broth, then add the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar (if using).
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Braise the Ribs:
Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise the short ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone. You may want to check the ribs halfway through and add a little more broth if the liquid is evaporating too much.
7. Finish the Sauce (Optional):
Once the short ribs are done, remove the pot from the oven. Carefully remove the ribs and set them aside, covered with foil to keep warm.
If you want a smoother, richer sauce, you can skim off any excess fat from the surface of the liquid. You can also strain the sauce and return it to the pot, or simply simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to reduce it slightly.
For a creamy touch, stir in heavy cream at the end of cooking and let it heat through.
8. Serve:
Serve the short ribs over mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles, spooning the rich sauce and vegetables over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Conclusion
These Braised Short Ribs are the epitome of comfort food, with tender meat that falls off the bone and a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or pasta. Slow-braised in a savory broth, they’re a great dish for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself and your guests to something truly indulgent. Enjoy the comforting, melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
